Grand californian tips?

[lisaflores]

We are staying at the Grand Californian this coming weekend. Any tips on getting better room or upgrades or anything like that? We just paid for the standard room and I am not good at asking for things, but what do you think? Do they ever upgrade people just for asking? Any other tips for the weekend? we have an infant and a 3-year-old.

Thanks, Lisa

 

[WebmasterMaryJo]

<font color=navy>I've never asked for an upgrade myself, but I enjoyed the standard room when I was there. We had room 4101, which is above the main door that you walk in. We had a view of the Disneyland & Paradise Pier Hotels, a view of the monorail as it goes past the Grand Californian on its way to Downtown Disney, and a glimpse of California Adventure (but not really a view into the park). We were right near the main elevators, and near the ice machine. I loved this location. If you get the same room on the 3rd floor, there is a little seating area that overlooks the grand lobby down below where you can relax and listen to the piano player in peace. I really liked this location.

Another view is the courtyard view that overlooks a little courtyard with pine trees (they look like Lodgepole pines). The monorail runs right through there.

 

[RKB]

If just one of you has an annual pass - you may qualify for the annual pass rate (which was 159.99 weeknights and 179.00 weekends) at least at the beginning of January.

 

[lulubelle]

Hi Lisa,
We stayed at the Grand last year in December and like you, paid for a standard room hoping for an upgrade. We did this at DLH and PP and were upgraded both times with no additional charge. However, the Grand was sold out when we stayed and we had the courtyard view (the monorail goes through), it was pretty and peaceful, but I had my heart set on a DTD room and was disappointed. When we checked in, I simply stated "I know we booked a standard room, but is there any chance that a view room might be available?". They will definitely check for you and they are very nice about it. In fact the CM that checked us in said to check back with him each day to see if a view room opened up. I learned my lesson, if you REALLY want a particular room - book it and pay in advance. That said, the hotel is beautiful and you will have an awesome time

P.S. Be sure to visit Whitewater Snacks and if you can, take the free hotel history tour offered each day.

 

[poohj80]

If just one of you has an annual pass - you may qualify for the annual pass rate (which was 159.99 weeknights and 179.00 weekends) at least at the beginning of January.

What type of view were these rates for?

Thanks!

 

[RKB]

We were actually given a Downtown Disney view for the AP rates. But they had one available - I don't think this would always happen. We were very happy with the GC

 

[poohj80]

Thanks, I think we've decided to go ahead and book a theme park view now even though rates aren't great to insure we get it.